FUTURE RX SWITCHES

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- It's a giant business. But last year, for the first time since 1993, there were no true prescription to over-the-counter switches released to the market.Given that fact, and the uncertainty at the Food and Drug Administration as it awaits the appointment of a new commissioner, supermarket retailers are wondering what they can expect in terms of new Rx-to-OTC products for 2001.Over-the-counter

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- It's a giant business. But last year, for the first time since 1993, there were no true prescription to over-the-counter switches released to the market.

Given that fact, and the uncertainty at the Food and Drug Administration as it awaits the appointment of a new commissioner, supermarket retailers are wondering what they can expect in terms of new Rx-to-OTC products for 2001.

Over-the-counter products rang up $23.2 billion in food, drug and mass sales for